Cervical cancer affects the cells of the cervix, i.e. the lower portion of the uterus which attaches to the vagina. The most common cause of this cancer is Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted infection. One can lower the chances of developing cervical cancer by getting regular screening tests done. Besides, receiving an HPV vaccine can also prevent it. Knowing about the early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer is extremely important in order to be able to successfully treat it.

Cervical cancer can be of 3 major types. Squamous Cell Carcinoma affects the squamous cells, i.e. the thin cells which are present in the outer space of the cervix. This is the most common type. Adenocarcinoma affects the cells that produce the mucus. Mixed Carcinoma affects both, the squamous cells as well as the mucus-producing glandular cells.

Early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer
If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor immediately.

• Blood spots or little bleeding between periods
• Menstrual bleeding that occurs for a protracted time period
• Bleeding after sexual intercourse or a pelvic examination
• Extreme pain during sexual intercourse
• Increased vaginal discharge with a potent odor
• Vaginal discharge along with bloodstains
• Bleeding after menopause
• Unexplained and persistent back pain or pelvic area discomfort
• After cancer has spread, one can experience symptoms such as:
• Trouble while urinating
• Pelvic pain
• Kidney failure
• Swollen legs
• Lack of appetite and subsequent weight loss
• Fatigue

Causes of cervical cancer

• Cervical cancer occurs when the healthy cells in the cervix develop mutations in their DNA. These affected cells begin to multiply at a very fast pace and accumulate to form a tumor. This tumor can invade nearby tissues and spread elsewhere in the body.

Risk Factors

• Although it isn’t quite clear as to what causes cervical cancer, yet HPV plays a significant role.
• Having many sexual partners can increase the chance of acquiring HPV too.
• If you started to have sex at an early age, i.e. before 16 or within a year of getting your periods, then the risk of developing this cancer increases.
• The risk of cervical cancer is higher for those who have any other sexually transmitted infection, such as HIV/ AIDS, gonorrhea, and Chlamydia.
• If you have a weak immune system, the risk of getting cervical cancer is higher.
• Chain smokers are at a greater risk of getting this type of cancer.
• If you have been taking birth control pills for a long time, especially for a period of 5 years or more, then the risk is greater than others.

If cervical cancer is diagnosed, your doctor will work out an effective treatment plan that will help relieve the symptoms. This is known as supportive care. But make sure to see your doctor immediately in case you come across any early warning signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. Be aware of the risk factors too, so that you can minimize your chances of getting this disease. This will help to treat the problem effectively.